Photo of Robin R Pritz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Robin R Pritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Branch, TX 78070
I enjoy working with clients who love to be encouraged and who are needing to be supported in their efforts in recovery and working through life. I particularly understand rehabilitation and recovery and its impact on an individual or family. I work with adults and couples.
I enjoy working with clients who love to be encouraged and who are needing to be supported in their efforts in recovery and working through life. I particularly understand rehabilitation and recovery and its impact on an individual or family. I work with adults and couples.
(833) 408-5255 View (833) 408-5255
Photo of Antony Ashby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Antony Ashby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Ridge, TX 78266
My desire is to provide my clients a clear perspective, free from the clutter that is likely clouding judgment, understanding, or perspective. Together we can navigate the issues and concerns and create a solution that is fitting for each client. Our solutions will ultimately be Specific to your needs - Measurable as your journey improves - Attainable as you gain more confidence - Realistic as you determine your strengths and weaknesses - Time sensitive as you regain your independence (SMART). These motivational factors will be key to my focus and your recovery in any aspect of your life.
My desire is to provide my clients a clear perspective, free from the clutter that is likely clouding judgment, understanding, or perspective. Together we can navigate the issues and concerns and create a solution that is fitting for each client. Our solutions will ultimately be Specific to your needs - Measurable as your journey improves - Attainable as you gain more confidence - Realistic as you determine your strengths and weaknesses - Time sensitive as you regain your independence (SMART). These motivational factors will be key to my focus and your recovery in any aspect of your life.
(210) 981-3248 View (210) 981-3248
Photo of Renewing Hope Counseling in Comal County, TX
Renewing Hope Counseling
PhD, NCC, LPC-S, RPT, NP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spring Branch, TX 78070
Individuals were not designed to go through the challenges of life alone. Renewing Hope and Children's Hope Counseling is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and find paths to new places of HOPE and PEACE. RHC offers individual therapy for children and adults as well as couples counseling, assessments, and medication management.
Individuals were not designed to go through the challenges of life alone. Renewing Hope and Children's Hope Counseling is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and find paths to new places of HOPE and PEACE. RHC offers individual therapy for children and adults as well as couples counseling, assessments, and medication management.
(713) 352-7979 View (713) 352-7979

Online Therapists

Photo of Leo Inyang, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Leo Inyang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHr, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, disruptive behavioral disorders, and addiction issues. I also work with adults struggling with grief, loss or life transitions, and marital issues. I strive to help clients realize positive strengths in their life, in their relationships and in their home environments. I am here to help you overcome personal issues, family issues and life challenges. I believe therapy is an opportunity to alleviate emotional pain and also finding a safe space to reflect and grow.
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, disruptive behavioral disorders, and addiction issues. I also work with adults struggling with grief, loss or life transitions, and marital issues. I strive to help clients realize positive strengths in their life, in their relationships and in their home environments. I am here to help you overcome personal issues, family issues and life challenges. I believe therapy is an opportunity to alleviate emotional pain and also finding a safe space to reflect and grow.
(610) 751-3260 View (610) 751-3260
Photo of Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc, Counselor in Comal County, TX
Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc
Counselor, MEd , LPCC-S, LICDC, LMHC FL, Gamb
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213  (Online Only)
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
(210) 405-8981 View (210) 405-8981
Photo of Erik Alejandro Halgunseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Erik Alejandro Halgunseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Are you feeling that you are not living up to your true potential? Within you lies the substance to effectively deal with life's challenges, but you may need assistance in developing this power. Therapy can be that key that leads to a more fulfilled life. I believe that skilled treatment can assist individuals with a variety of challenges. In order to succeed the Counselor and the Client must work together, following a well organized plan to achieve the goals that the Client has chosen.
Are you feeling that you are not living up to your true potential? Within you lies the substance to effectively deal with life's challenges, but you may need assistance in developing this power. Therapy can be that key that leads to a more fulfilled life. I believe that skilled treatment can assist individuals with a variety of challenges. In order to succeed the Counselor and the Client must work together, following a well organized plan to achieve the goals that the Client has chosen.
(210) 934-0162 View (210) 934-0162
Photo of Dr. Kineta Forte, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Comal County, TX
Dr. Kineta Forte
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCDC, QCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
Dealing with addiction can be very difficult and overwhelming to deal with alone. Addiction doesn't look the same for everyone but anyone can overcome addiction. Drug abuse and addiction problems can be devastating, not only to the individual but to the family as well. Knowing that you are not alone is the first step to ease your mind. Everyone with an addiction problem has their own story that should be individualized not judged but heard. Identifying the biological, environmental, behavioral, and social causes and consequences of drug use and addiction is just some of the steps that we will face together.
Dealing with addiction can be very difficult and overwhelming to deal with alone. Addiction doesn't look the same for everyone but anyone can overcome addiction. Drug abuse and addiction problems can be devastating, not only to the individual but to the family as well. Knowing that you are not alone is the first step to ease your mind. Everyone with an addiction problem has their own story that should be individualized not judged but heard. Identifying the biological, environmental, behavioral, and social causes and consequences of drug use and addiction is just some of the steps that we will face together.
(210) 796-0464 View (210) 796-0464
Photo of Julie Estrada, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Julie Estrada
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78256
My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
Welcome! I am a Christian, trauma-informed professional counselor and chemical dependency counselor licensed in Texas. I have 4 years of clinical experience working in various settings with populations from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds and problems ranging from situational life stress to severe mental illness. I am passionate about providing support to individuals who are working on self-improvement, are feeling stuck in the past, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. As a veteran and prior military spouse, I have a heart for military personnel, veterans, first responders, and families.
My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
Welcome! I am a Christian, trauma-informed professional counselor and chemical dependency counselor licensed in Texas. I have 4 years of clinical experience working in various settings with populations from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds and problems ranging from situational life stress to severe mental illness. I am passionate about providing support to individuals who are working on self-improvement, are feeling stuck in the past, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. As a veteran and prior military spouse, I have a heart for military personnel, veterans, first responders, and families.
(210) 905-9930 View (210) 905-9930
Photo of Bethel Moges, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Bethel Moges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
With a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, I believe in the work of this field. Whether this includes group therapy, addiction psychoeducation, or pre-marital counseling, it is my honor to walk with you as you seek to recover or grow. Life can be heavy and emotions difficult to regulate. Throughout your journey, I recognize that it can be life-changing to add a non-judgmental support with tools to your team as you work to reach your goals by using your own strengths. Just as hurt and betrayal often take place in relationship, so do healing and change. In a session with me, you matter and you are safe.
With a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, I believe in the work of this field. Whether this includes group therapy, addiction psychoeducation, or pre-marital counseling, it is my honor to walk with you as you seek to recover or grow. Life can be heavy and emotions difficult to regulate. Throughout your journey, I recognize that it can be life-changing to add a non-judgmental support with tools to your team as you work to reach your goals by using your own strengths. Just as hurt and betrayal often take place in relationship, so do healing and change. In a session with me, you matter and you are safe.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of The Agape Center-Faith Based | Trauma | Addiction in Comal County, TX
The Agape Center-Faith Based | Trauma | Addiction
Verified Verified
Seguin, TX 78155
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance abuse, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD Alcohol, Drug Addiction, pornography, anger issues, Depression or marriage concerns? You're not alone, give The Agape Center a call and talk to one of our trained and certified counselors.
Our Pastoral Counselors are certified, trained in providing trauma informed Christian counseling, for Adults, Youth, Couples and Families that are struggling with, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Addictions such as alcohol/drug abuse, sex addiction, pornography, behavioral issues, special needs, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social/relational concerns. All counseling sessions, including Intensive Counseling, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and aftercare are all 1 on 1. In office and Telehealth options. Also available for Court ordered DWI, and DUI programs. Biofeedback therapy is available
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance abuse, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD Alcohol, Drug Addiction, pornography, anger issues, Depression or marriage concerns? You're not alone, give The Agape Center a call and talk to one of our trained and certified counselors.
Our Pastoral Counselors are certified, trained in providing trauma informed Christian counseling, for Adults, Youth, Couples and Families that are struggling with, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Addictions such as alcohol/drug abuse, sex addiction, pornography, behavioral issues, special needs, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social/relational concerns. All counseling sessions, including Intensive Counseling, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and aftercare are all 1 on 1. In office and Telehealth options. Also available for Court ordered DWI, and DUI programs. Biofeedback therapy is available
(830) 254-5067 View (830) 254-5067
Photo of Charlotte Crary, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Charlotte Crary
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78664
If you or your child are experiencing trauma-related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, substance use, nightmares we can help.
Charlotte is an experienced trauma therapist specializing in the treatment of children and families with special needs who have suffered trauma, children in foster care, and adoptive families. Charlotte has developed trauma-informed clinical programs for treatment centers and non-profit organizations across the country. Building trust and rapport with children and their families is the first step to effective treatment. Charlotte uses an integrated family approach to include the entire family in the treatment process.
If you or your child are experiencing trauma-related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, substance use, nightmares we can help.
Charlotte is an experienced trauma therapist specializing in the treatment of children and families with special needs who have suffered trauma, children in foster care, and adoptive families. Charlotte has developed trauma-informed clinical programs for treatment centers and non-profit organizations across the country. Building trust and rapport with children and their families is the first step to effective treatment. Charlotte uses an integrated family approach to include the entire family in the treatment process.
(833) 747-0072 View (833) 747-0072
Photo of Julie Dooling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Julie Dooling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I am a license professional counselor with experience working with mental health, trauma, addiction, grief, and couples counseling. I am here to walk along your side and see the world as you see it. I believe that with support, people can change their beliefs, thoughts, and behaviors in order to live productively and joyfully. It is my hope to build trust in a therapeutic relationship by providing safe and nonjudgmental therapy.
I am a license professional counselor with experience working with mental health, trauma, addiction, grief, and couples counseling. I am here to walk along your side and see the world as you see it. I believe that with support, people can change their beliefs, thoughts, and behaviors in order to live productively and joyfully. It is my hope to build trust in a therapeutic relationship by providing safe and nonjudgmental therapy.
(737) 258-8788 View (737) 258-8788
Photo of Pamela Rowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Pamela Rowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Some of the issues I have worked with include addiction and recovery, depression, anxiety, stress, autism spectrum disorder, conflict resolution, anger management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD, ADD, OCD, grief and loss, career challenges, and relationship issues to name a few. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and direct. I believe in empowerment and self-confidence and treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in labeling and I am determined to be unbiased and objective so as to meet you right where you are.
Some of the issues I have worked with include addiction and recovery, depression, anxiety, stress, autism spectrum disorder, conflict resolution, anger management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD, ADD, OCD, grief and loss, career challenges, and relationship issues to name a few. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and direct. I believe in empowerment and self-confidence and treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in labeling and I am determined to be unbiased and objective so as to meet you right where you are.
(737) 299-0956 View (737) 299-0956
Photo of Angela Diehl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Comal County, TX
Angela Diehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Solution focused therapy for: Addiction/Substance Abuse, Adjustment Issues, Couple/Marital Issues, Depression, Divorce, Empty Nest Syndrome, Family of Origin Issues, Grief and Loss, Midlife Crisis, Parenting Challenges, Physical/Emotional Abuse, PTSD, Spirituality.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing solution focused, brief therapy for those experiencing challenges-personal, professional or interpersonal-at any stage of their lives. Please contact me if you or a loved one are seeking solutions to these challenges.
Solution focused therapy for: Addiction/Substance Abuse, Adjustment Issues, Couple/Marital Issues, Depression, Divorce, Empty Nest Syndrome, Family of Origin Issues, Grief and Loss, Midlife Crisis, Parenting Challenges, Physical/Emotional Abuse, PTSD, Spirituality.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing solution focused, brief therapy for those experiencing challenges-personal, professional or interpersonal-at any stage of their lives. Please contact me if you or a loved one are seeking solutions to these challenges.
(210) 908-5844 View (210) 908-5844
Photo of Nolan Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Nolan Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I work with couples, families, and individuals (teens, kids, and adults). Do you want to experience things like growth, change, and healing? Are you experiencing grief, trauma (PTSD), addiction, anxiety, depression, or psychosis? Do you take medication, but it feels like something is missing or off? Maybe it’s something else. I help by treating the SOURCE of what you are facing, and I help with the day-to-day and the past of how to deal with the source, so you can be your best self. The source is a ‘root cause’ or a ‘seed’ of how it started.
I work with couples, families, and individuals (teens, kids, and adults). Do you want to experience things like growth, change, and healing? Are you experiencing grief, trauma (PTSD), addiction, anxiety, depression, or psychosis? Do you take medication, but it feels like something is missing or off? Maybe it’s something else. I help by treating the SOURCE of what you are facing, and I help with the day-to-day and the past of how to deal with the source, so you can be your best self. The source is a ‘root cause’ or a ‘seed’ of how it started.
(210) 309-2006 View (210) 309-2006
Photo of Heather M. Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Heather M. Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take charge of your life and embark on a journey of self-improvement? If so, you've come to the right place. I specialize in guiding individuals who are determined to make positive changes and overcome challenges including anxiety, depression, and the lingering effects of substance use or addiction. If you've tried counseling before but didn't feel understood or supported, I'm here to provide the compassionate and non-judgmental environment you deserve.
Are you ready to take charge of your life and embark on a journey of self-improvement? If so, you've come to the right place. I specialize in guiding individuals who are determined to make positive changes and overcome challenges including anxiety, depression, and the lingering effects of substance use or addiction. If you've tried counseling before but didn't feel understood or supported, I'm here to provide the compassionate and non-judgmental environment you deserve.
(737) 520-7438 View (737) 520-7438
Photo of Stewart Counseling & Inspire One, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Stewart Counseling & Inspire One, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
I also address issues such as divorce, military deployment, academic underachievement, self-esteem and addiction.
I believe the greatest resource for securing a brighter tomorrow begins today by inspiring people to fulfill their potential. Stewart Counseling is professional counseling for families, couples, children and adolescents who believe in taking action toward a flourishing life. Play therapy is generally employed with children 3 through 14 years of age and provides a way for children to express their experiences and feelings through a natural, self-guided, self-healing process. Parent support groups revitalize the art of inspiring independent, self-motivated children and adolescent's fulfillment of their potential in the world.
I also address issues such as divorce, military deployment, academic underachievement, self-esteem and addiction.
I believe the greatest resource for securing a brighter tomorrow begins today by inspiring people to fulfill their potential. Stewart Counseling is professional counseling for families, couples, children and adolescents who believe in taking action toward a flourishing life. Play therapy is generally employed with children 3 through 14 years of age and provides a way for children to express their experiences and feelings through a natural, self-guided, self-healing process. Parent support groups revitalize the art of inspiring independent, self-motivated children and adolescent's fulfillment of their potential in the world.
(830) 730-5552 View (830) 730-5552
Photo of Northside Family Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comal County, TX
Northside Family Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Counselors are experienced with anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, self-image, peer pressure, & much more.
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
Counselors are experienced with anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, self-image, peer pressure, & much more.
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
(210) 361-7431 x1 View (210) 361-7431 x1
Photo of LaShekia Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Comal County, TX
LaShekia Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Post-MA, LMFT-A, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Specializing in providing healing to children, adolescents, and families after traumatic events, LaShekia is also well-equipped to assist individuals struggling with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, self-injurious behaviors, and moderate to severe mental health disorders to discover healing.
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
Specializing in providing healing to children, adolescents, and families after traumatic events, LaShekia is also well-equipped to assist individuals struggling with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, self-injurious behaviors, and moderate to severe mental health disorders to discover healing.
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
(832) 400-6506 View (832) 400-6506
Photo of Trinity Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comal County, TX
Trinity Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
If you are looking for an easy to access location surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers for individual, group, family or couples therapy, I am here to serve you. I offer appointments inside or outside. Appointments can be relaxed sitting down or include movement if you are interested. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in working with people on boundaries, goal-setting, assertiveness, communication skills, changing thoughts and behaviors. I provide support when you are in crisis, need help with parenting and work with you to reduce symptoms that affect your everyday life.
If you are looking for an easy to access location surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers for individual, group, family or couples therapy, I am here to serve you. I offer appointments inside or outside. Appointments can be relaxed sitting down or include movement if you are interested. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in working with people on boundaries, goal-setting, assertiveness, communication skills, changing thoughts and behaviors. I provide support when you are in crisis, need help with parenting and work with you to reduce symptoms that affect your everyday life.
(726) 227-5106 View (726) 227-5106

See more therapy options for Comal County


Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.